Companies such as LensShopper  offers a wide variety of contact lenses that can correct the same conditions that eye glasses correct such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism (distorted vision) and presbyopia (need for bifocals).  In addition, contact lenses can be used to change your appearance by giving your eyes a new color, or a different look.

The majority of people are able to wear contact lenses.  There are a few however, that have difficulty because of conditions such eye infections and extra sensitive eyes.  Yet there are things that remedy any discomfort encountered when wearing contact lenses.

One of the more common complaints involved with contact lenses is an increased occurrence of dry eyes.  However, there are contacts designed specifically for dry eyes and daily replacement lenses as those may work for you.  Such lenses prevent the build up of deposits because they are changed daily.  This helps reduce the problems that may generally dry out your eyes.

It is also imperative that you visit an ophthalmologist or optometrist prior to purchasing your contact lenses.  Your eye care professional will measure your eyes and find the right contact to fit you properly and comfortably.  Your doctor will also advise you on the different types of contacts available and how to properly take care of them and your eyes.  Choose an eye care professional who is experienced with contact lenses and with whom you can discuss your needs and expectations.

A directory of eye care professionalsin the various states and cities for local eye care professionals, opticians and neighborhood optometrists is available on the LensShopper site. The list provides  reliable and licensed eye care services like eye examination, LASIK surgery, consultation and contact lens fitting in the State or City you live in.  Other eye care professionals can be found through your yellow pages, or city business directory.

Keep in mind that contact lenses are safe and effective alternatives to wearing eyeglasses when used with proper care and maintenance.  Your commitment to the care and recommended replacement of your contacts are imperative to maintain healthy eyes.

There are some easy ways that you maintain your vision, and reduce the risk of contracting some eye diseases such as age related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts and dry eye disease.

1. Regular Eye Examinations

If your family has a history of eye disease, this is extremely important.  Regular visits to an eye care professional is vital for early detection and early treatment of eye diseases. Diseases such as the wet form of macular degeneration can progress rapidly, causing severe vision loss in a short period of time.

2. Sunglasses and a Hat

Sunglasses should be more than just a fashion statement, they should be worn while outside. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can damage your eyes. Debris blowing around in the wind may carry toxins or irritants which can cause infections. Wearing a pair of sunglasses outside not only stops you from having to squint in bright light and the damaging effects of the UV rays but can provide a barrier to the wind. A hat will stop stop the UV
rays that are not stopped by sunglasses from the top and side.

3. Aim your air condition away from your eyes

The dry air from an air conditioner will remove the moisture from your eyes, leaving you with dry, irritated eyes. While this can be uncomfortable, it can also lead to cornal abrasions that if left untreated, can lead to blindness.

4. Replace your eye makeup

Mascara should be replaced every 3 months and other eye makeup at least once a year. Eye makeup is a perfect repository for harmful bacteria which can cause severe eye infections.

5. Ehhance your diet

Eating things such as blueberries, sweet potatoes, red onions, fish and spinach may help lower the risks associated with some eye diseases.

For example, blueberries are rich in antioxidants which have been shown to reduce the risk associated with age related macular degeneration. Spinach is rich in lutein which is another nutrient that has been shown to reduce the risks associated with age related macular degeneration. Red Onions contain quercetin, another anxtioxidant that protects against cataracts.

6. Reduce or eliminate your salt from your diet

High salt intake increases your risk of cataracts. Reduce the amount of salt and sodium intake to lower your risk.

7. Look up from reading every 30 minutes

This will reduce eye strain and eye fatigue as you are reading.  Your eyes like any other part of your body will get tired with over use.

8. Wear goggles when you work

If you are doing carpentry or yard work, wearing goggles can prevent debris from entering your eye that could lead to corneal abbrasions. Also wear goggles when you swim, you can protect your eyes from the damage
caused by chlorine.

9. Lower the heat in your home

Heat dries out the air in your house which in turn dries out your eyes.  In winter, you may want to consider a humidifier to add some moisture in the air.

10. Get regular exercise

Getting regular exercise could help reduce the risk associated with developing glaucoma. A brisk walk four times a week has been shown to reduce the the intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma.